Since being elected as Mayor in March, I have collaborated closely with the newly elected council to identify key projects that are important for the future development and security of our shire. Councillors participated in several budget workshops with senior staff members to deliver what we believe is a progressive and responsible budget. I extend my gratitude to councillors, staff and CEO for their contribution and time spent in delivering the 2024/2025 budget. The Winton shire was amongst 20 local government areas who received new land valuations in March 2024. The average increase for the Winton Shire was 116%. After much careful consideration and being very mindful of the cost-of-living pressures and rising costs to deliver services, Council has decided on a rate increase of 4% for both township and rural categories which is just above the current CPI of 3.6%. The 15% discount will apply for the discount period, and pensioners who hold a Queensland pensioner concession card, for land owned and permanently occupied by the pensioner, will continue to receive a $312 rebate on rates and charges. As mentioned, there are ongoing projects from the 2023/2024 budget that we are committed to completing for the benefit of our community. These include the new Showgrounds/Bar/Kitchen, Youth Centre/Recovery Centre and a loading and unloading walkway for a triple road train at the double-decker ramp to improve safety at the Saleyards. The extension of the industrial estate is underway and will secure future growth in our commercial business. Our shire has a road network of 2,500 kilometres and Council’s maintenance program aims to keep our road network at an acceptable standard for transporting commodities, our residents and our ever-increasing tourist population. Ensuring continued work for our road crews is essential. With the funding now secured, work will commence on the first stage of the 37kms remaining to seal the Jundah Road through to Lark Quarry, through ROSI (Roads of Strategic Importance) funding. This funding is over 3 years with a split 80% / 20% contribution between the Federal Government and Winton Shire Council. The sealing of this section will increase road safety and will link for both primary industries and tourists to Lark Quarry. The importance of being a liveable place is significant for communities in the Outback, not just for keeping our current residents, also for drawing in new families and investors to our fantastic local government area. The Council has set aside funds in this budget to explore the idea of creating a recreational lake within our town. In the next few months, the council plans to organise meetings with the community to discuss this project. Additionally, the Council is committed to enhancing the walking paths throughout our town to ensure the safety and ease of access for all. The rural sector of our shire is the number one economical driver, and besides having safe roads to transport livestock, controlling pests and weeds are also imperative, and Council have again committed $280,000 to the Wild Dog Working Group. Council recognises the efforts our local committees, clubs and organisations do in facilitating events throughout the year for our community and has allocated $300,000 once more for this purpose. In 2025 Winton will celebrate 150 years of settlement. Council has engaged an Events Coordinator to work with Council and residents to ensure that we mark this milestone in our Shire’s history. Council will encourage all events held throughout the 2025 calendar year to continue with the 150-year branding that Council has approved. Our Council is committed to delivering the best outcomes for our shire that are responsible and longterm financially sustainable. Council in the past has participated in a Business Improvement Plan with Qld Treasury and council will continue to explore potential strategies for supporting a cost-effective accountable business model. Cr Cathy White Mayor Winton Shire Counci
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